Hakeem is the all time blocks leader. Was in top 10 in steals every year. Let alone how dominant he was on the offensive end of the court! Hands down best center ever! 🤘🏾💪🏾❤️
Olajuwon was one of the most dominant bigs on BOTH ends of the floor. I would take Olajuwon over any big. That little shake was his move that why its called THE DREAM SHAKE. Olajuwon is my favorite big of all time.
I have him at third, after Wilt and Russell. Not gonna lie though, I'd have loved to see blocks and steals on those guys to be more comfortable about the ranking.
@@TheIcemanthomas He's my fourth, but definitely behind the top three in my book. He's definitely one of the greatest centers ever, but he his rings all came when he had the support of all-time great point guards, Oscar and Magic. Prime-Kareem scores more than prime-Hakeem, but they're just about equal in blocks and rebounds. Prime-Hakeem takes the lead through his defensive presence and steals, in my book, though I'd understand swapping their order. Wilt and Bill are gods of ages past. If you don't believe they're 1 and 2, you need to look further into the heights their rivalry spurred them to. A post-prime, post-knee-surgery Wilt blocked consecutive skyhooks while ignoring Kareems defence. And Bill won more rings than he has fingers for against prime Wilt. By the way, it's a bit disrespectful not to call Kareem by his chosen name.
Olajowon over Mutombo.. easily.. mutombo couldnt hold Olajuwon's jock.. Mutumbo was just defensive. Hakeem was the whole package Hakeem "the dream" Olajuwon.. the dream shake is a play off his nickname and him shaking back in forth then going ro his fadeaway jumper
Yeah man it’s insulting to Olajuwon for somebody to even ask the question. The only centers to compare with him are Kareem, Wilt, Russell, and Shaq. Anybody else is just foolish.
The fact that Hakeem was picked over Jordan and no one criticized Houston is noteworthy. I think it is also amazing that a center was also one of the leaders in steals. For a man his size, that's amazing.
Hakeem is my #1 center of all time he was 6’10, and didn’t start playing basketball til he was in high school. He’s from Nigeria and he grew up playing soccer. He was a Goalie. No big man had his foot work, he was a mid 75-80% cree throw shorter, he could score from anywhere on the floor and he had handles like not other bug men ever. He was the most skilled big man of all time. He’s 1 of the only players to win a title with no other superstar with there 1st title. Robert shorty was a rookie from Alabama. At the time nobody knew who Kenny Smith was . The only other big man that was close to him as versatility and could do everything was Tim Duncan. Lebrun/Kobe/Shaq and other NBA greats have reached out to Hakeem in the off-season to try and learn his footwork and post moves
My favorite stat is he was the first player to ever finish a season top 10 in rebounds and steals.. And he did it 10 seasons in a row.. And nobody has done it since..
When it comes to game, not talking about legacy but just game, Olajuwon is the best center in NBA history. He doesn't get that recognition but he should. There's no center that was as skilled and dominant on BOTH ends of the court than Olajuwon. The 2 years that he won a championship is still the best I've ever seen a player play. Bird, Magic, Jordan, Kobe, LeBron, etc. none of them were as great as Olajuwon was on both ends of the court during those 2 seasons.
Hakeem dominates Mutombo in every single measurable defensive stat. Hakeem basically learned to play basketball in College, he played soccer his entire life and is the reason people believe he had elite footwork. Fun fact about Akeem/Hakeem was he was originally set to go to school up north but changed his mind after visiting the school during the winter. Instead he chose to go to Houston because he preferred the hot weather.
Just asking the question Olajuwon or Mutumbo says you need to watch more videos on Olajuwon. I for one not going to take ANY big over Dream. He should be on EVERYONES top 10 players alltime list if you ask me. The 1st non-american to win MVP and DPoY and never even touched a basketball until he was 15. Only player ever to retire being in the top 10 in Blocks, scoring, rebounds, and steals. Only player ever to win MVP, DPoY, and Finlas MVP in same season. Only player ever to have 200 blocks and 200 steals in same season. Only 12 players have ever got 200 blocks and 100 steals in a season and he did it 11 times. 1 of only 4 players to ever record a quadruple double and he actually did it twice but NBA took an assist away. He's also the closest player ever to get a QUINTUPLE DOUBLE. That's how great of an all-around player he was. He could do it all. There will NEVER be another Olajuwon. Hope you continue on your Olajuwon journey man......
Bro. Look at Olajuwon DEF stat numbers. He is number one in block shots of all time. That won't be replaced in a long time. Mutombo doesn't even come close. He is number 2 in blocks. Olajuwon is the only center that is top 10 in steals. Plus Mutombo had NO offensive game. Please research before putting up a video. It will only take you 5 minutes.
He's not top ten, but he's on the cusp. And you're right that he is world's greater than Mutombo. And you're also right that he was probably a once in a generation if not once in a lifetime player. A true all-time great.
"He can shoot?" 😁There's nothing Hakeem couldn't do. Maybe besides bring the ball up court Olajuwon did it all. I love this! Seeing someone knowledgeable about basketball really getting thier 1st experience of a legend like Olajuwon! This is great!
Olajuwon is the greatest basketball player of all time. The game footage, stats, and level of competition is all available now, there's no denying it anymore
I agree Hakeem Olajuwon is the greatest basketball player of all time! Forbes magazine actually has more info to back it up and that’s only statistically
My dude Olajuwon recorded at least 100 steals and at least 200 blocks every season for his first 12 seasons! The only player in history to record 200 blocks and 200 steals in the same season and the only center in the top 51 or so in the top 10 in steals(#9 all time)
Olajuwon didn't have the number of MVPS and championships like Jordan, Russell, Kareem, Magic, or Bird, but you could make a strong argument that Olajuwon was the most-talented/skilled player of all-time. Few guys ever worked as hard as he did on both ends of the court. He was a tenacious hustling defensive monster with the finest footwork on offense of any big ever. I remember during about '88 to '91, guys like Jordan, Barkley, Drexler and Ewing were putting up tremendous individual stats, but Olajuwon's were otherwordly; he led the league in both blocked shots and rebounds during the '89 and '90 seasons. He continued to be on a tear in '91 until a Bill Cartwright elbow to the eye put him out for awhile (had to have surgery and came back wearing goggles for a period). While Olajuwon was out, the NBA was already trying to build up young David Robinson as the best center in the league. But, we all know who was the best center of the 90s.
Olajuwan was great defensively bro. You gotta study him more. Hakeem was one of the most underrated players in history and I'm sure his peers will tell you the same thing. When Jordan left the league this is the man who couldn't be stopped.
I only disagree in that the sonics wupt houston every damn year. They were the biggest reason houston did not get farther in the playoffs more often. Damn sonics lol
Dream is the NBA ALL TIME Shot Blocker leader. Way more than Mutumbo. He got it done on both ends. Dream dominated all the Centers in his era even Shaq.
@@lukekiefer5964 In the argument, no doubt, but tough to know because hardly any defensive stats were kept.. Definitely a better run protector, and he won with size, one on one, defensively, but both Russell and Hakeem were better one on one.., and both were certainly better help defenders.. It’s close between those 3..
He definitely had weakness but they were few and far between. He wasn’t the best when it came to his shot selection for a while and had that same stigma of never passing early in his career. But like mj and kobe, he was such a great shot maker that it really didn’t hurt him at all. And once he started a trusting his teammates more, he got even more dominant. He’s probably the best difficult shot making bigman ever.
Olajuwon was everything Mutumbo was defensively and more. Hakeem is the all-time shot block leader in league history and top ten all time in steals as a center.
He was a 7 ft. tall soccer goalie before he came to Houston for college ball. Living in Houston, we got a lot of back story on him and knew that he would be a monster.
@Ben Born January 21, 1963 (age 60) Lagos, Nigeria Nationality Nigerian / American Listed height 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m) Listed weight 255 lb (116 kg) Career information High school Muslim Teachers College (Lagos, Nigeria) College Houston (1981-1984) NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall Selected by the Houston Rockets Playing career 1984-2002 Position Center Number 34
Easy Hakeem... I love your Mutombo love. There's a reason the NBA just named the defensive player of year award after Hakeem! The only guy outside of David Robinson (who Hakeem cooked in the playoffs) who could get you 4 blocks AND 2 steals a game from the center position. While grabbing 11-14 boards and scoring 27-28 a game. Also I think this is the season when he won MVP, DPOY and finals MVP. Something nobody else has ever done.
Young man. Hakeem is the all time leader in shot blocks. He has an astounding 601 more blocks than Deke. He was also in the top 10 in steals of all time when he retired. Offensively is not even a comparison. You may be the only person in the world that would ever say, they would take Deke over Dream. I appreciate your platform….Keep striving to be great lil homie!
You saw the offense but Olajuwon is the all-time leader in blocks and top 10 in steals! (the only big in the top 60!!) Hollinger rated him 2nd best defender ever, behind Bill Russell (who avg'd 15 pts/Mutombo's best year was 16 as a rookie, btw). Hakeem just gets underrated on defense b/c the offense is AMAZING!
Hakeem never fails to lead his team to playoffs once no matter how bad his team was except the year he was injured. Olajuwon was an all star already in his rookie year. Arguable top 10 player of all time.With regards to him and Mutombo, Olajuwon is the all time leader in blocks and top 10 all time in steals. No center ever makes it to the top 10 all time in steals except for him. Its very clear that Olajuwon is better than Mutombo defensively.Olajuwon is the main offense and defense of the Rockets and the only player to win MVP,Finals MVP and Defensive player of the Year in one season.Truly underrated as an all time greats.
Wrong. Hakeem is the only player in the top 8 in block’s and steal’s. Number 1 in block’s, and 8 steal’s as a center. There is a video of him blocking Jordan’s shot for 6 minutes.
He actually 6'10" He played big and had long arms. Another center with great foot work at that time. Kevin McHale of Boston Celtics. With Bird And Parish. Hakeem had all footmovent. McHale was more wiggel
The Houston Cougars (Olajuwon, Drexler, etc) were averaging around 100 pts. per game in 1983. In the NCAA Finals, N.C. State held them to 52 points (no shot clock) and won in the final second on a play I still can see vividly right now. No shit. Still bummed. lol. Wiki that!
I got Hakeem in my all time starting 5 with Larry and MJ as the must-have core three players. You could put Hakeem at the 5 or at the 4 as well. Based on their playstyles and having no real weaknesses in the squad: (C) Duncan (PF) Hakeem (SF) Larry (SG) MJ (PG) Magic *or* as a smaller, quicker team with constant full court pressure, possibly more scoring, and some of the defensive load taken off Jordan by putting the 3 on the other teams best player: (C) Hakeem (PF) Larry (stretch 4) (SF) Kawhi or Scotty (SG) MJ (PG) Stockton
@@thefalco1981 Shaq is a top choice as well as Wilt at the 5, a power player that could bully the other team into submission, and in Wilt's case, also a lot of finesse when needed, and insane athletic ability.
Hakeem was the best center in the league for about 10 years. In his prime, he was better than Shaq, David Robinson, Ewing, Mourning, and WAY better than Mutombo. Dikembe isn't even in the same conversation of greatness with Hakeem. Olajuwon was quick like a guard, and had the best footwork of any NBA center ever. It's not even close. Olajuwon was a better defender than Mutombo too.
Awesome seeing people react to Hakeem for the first time. I watched him all the time growing up in Houston in the 80s and 90s, but I was a kid, so I couldn't appreciate just WHY he was so good. I saw the stats, I saw him score, and I saw his defense. But I didn't see the little things. The footwork, the little micro-moves with his shoulders, hands, and head that he obviously spent years cultivating. I also wondered why people didn't "just guard him on the fadeaway" before realizing that if they leaned too hard into the fadeaway, he could easily spin around and do a jump hook..or work his way under the basket for a reverse layup... or simply fade in the opposite direction. And those 1993-95 Rockets were so good in part because his surrounding cast was so good, so if you double-teamed Hakeem, you ran the risk of leaving Kenny Smith, Robert Horry, Sam Cassell, Mario Elie, Clyde Drexler, Otis Thorpe, etc. open for an easy look at a three or an easy basket underneath.
2 of my favorite basketball players from the 80s/90s was hakeem Olajuwan and Dominique Wilkins. Both incredibly underrated and never had another star or helper on their team to help them get more championships. I always wished they would end up on the same team. If they had they'd been very hard to stop.
Joel has great footwork. He modeled his game after Hakeem. And shaq did have solid footwork. It wasn’t as flashy as Hakeem’s. It was more subtle and hidden behind his power game. But it was there. Tim Duncan had phenomenal footwork. Al Jefferson’s post work was good. Zach Randolph is another. Kevin Mchale is close
@@armandodelossantos736his game also just because he didnt do 40 plus anight he couldve but only when needed and won 2 rings without another allstar on the roster.
Hakeem is the only player in NBA history to win a championship with 0 all stars on his team, and that was the team you were watching. So when you say they look like a dominant “team”, I wouldnt say so. They just had Hakeem and no one else did. Also, when you said you’d take Mutumbo over Hakeem bc defense wins championships, Hakeem dragged his team to 2 finals wins. Mutombo never did. I’d say Hakeem was just as good defensively as Mutombo, but Hakeem also scored 35 ppg in the playoffs and around 25 in the reg season. Mutombo not doin that
You take his left side, you get the fade away from the baseline, you take his right side it's an easy jump hook. You double/triple team him, the Rockets surrounded him with excellent 3-pt shooters (Maxwell, Kenny Smith, Horry, Mario Elie). Also, he was a much better defender than Mutombo. More blocks and he had the most steals as a big man. Along with the quick feet he had really quick hands.
From what I've seen from both, I'd say that Olajuwon provides enough defense to justify taking him over Mutombo, especially because he'd do so much on the offensive end :)
Hakeem is #1 to this day alltime blocks leader. Also, retired 7th alltime in steals. First overall for steals among centers. He was such an amazing rebounder he regularly was in the top 10 in rebounds despite constantly being out of position from blocking shots. Comparing Hakeem to Motumbo is frankly insulting. Hakeem was a far superior player. Only player to reach 200 blocks and 200 steals in a season and he did it like 4 or 5 times. Seriously, comparing a 2 way player to a one way player is not fare in the first place.
Hakeem is the all time leader in shot blocks. Dikembe is second and was a great defender. but Olajuwon was a guy you could build an entire franchise around. so awesome to see you getting to watch him play for the first time!! always a good Idea to go back and watch the previous generations play.. :)
I have Kareem as the #1 Center of all time but Hakeem at #2, he's the all time blocks leader, ahead of Mutombo, and he has the best footwork and smoothest shot of any center in history. When MJ retired in the mid 90's, Hakeem automatically became the best player in the league and started winning chips.
He was the number 1 pick in the same draft as Michael Jordan. He was a dominant big man, and he led his Rockets teams to the playoffs for like 10+ seasons in row. He sent Shaquille and penny home without a ring. Truly one of the best to ever play and put up a quadruple double
Olajuwon was a soccer player in his youth before he got into basketball and he translated his soccer juke into basketball to create the Dream Shake. That's part of why his footwork was so godlike. Looking at the shake it doesn't look like much but if you break it down it's a perfect 50/50 mixup.
Not even close Hakeem the dream 100%.... This guy is the best center ever... only once for a year played with another super star (Sampson) went to the final. Ralph Sampson injured never again had a chance until 93. It was him alone against the world.
there were many stars that were to win the championship when jordan went to play baseball but olajuvon won them twice and that tells everything about him
Hakeem was like a 7ft guard with his footwork. He’s all time shot block leader and top 10 all time in points, rebounds, steals, and assists. Imagine if Shaq and Olajuwon on the same team putting Olajuwon at PF.
They did because Sampson was a skilled ball handler and shooter from the outside. Surprisingly at Sampson’s height he wasn’t as good as Olajuwon was at paroling the middle. Sampson would’ve been great if it wasn’t for his injuries. He had a soft touch.
First watch! I gree up watching the dream! He played the center position in the NBA in the mid 80's through the 90's like big men okay in the modern era! It's what makes Bird so iconic as well! Guys that played in the what i call "BIG EAST" era through the physicalness of the game at that time with the finess that translates into todays game! Hakeem would be a top end 4 or 5 in today's game if he entered the league, no doubt! Probably the best in the league!
There is a reason elite guards like Kobe and Lebron went to Hakeem to tune their footwork. Skills gained due to him playing soccer as a kid instead of bball. Moses Malone was also instrumental in hardening him for the NBA.
I'm from Indianapolis and I'm a pacers fan but Olajuwon was always my favorite although Jordan is the goat, Olajuwon is my favorite. no matter what player or what era he would smoke everyone. Best all around player in NBA history.
There are different aspects of defence bro. Mutombo was good at blocking but Hakeem blocks, steals and rebounds better. Hakeem is also good offensively. Hakeem is complete
11:32 blocked Shaq 11:54 broke Shaq's ankles But to be fair, these are just highlights in one season, but Hakeem is top shot blocker of all time. At the time this comment is written, he's top 10 of all time in steals. We're talking steals! No other big is even top 50. At one point he led the Rockets in 5 categories. He was the best all around player up there with Jordan.
The first couple of minutes all of Hakeem's scoring is against Mutombo. Mutombo could not stop Hakeem. Defensively, Mutombo only had blocks, Hakeem had blocks, rebounds and steals. In all those highlights Hakeem is scoring on some of the top defenders, including Rodman (w/San Antonio), Mutombo (w/Denver), Alton Lister (w/Seattle), Buck Williams (w/Portland) and Shaq (w/Orlando). Hakeem finished his career #1 in all-time blocks and top 10 in all-time steals. The only center in the top 20 all-time. It was not uncommon for Hakeem to pick the ball for a steal from a guard.
i'm sure someone in these comments someone says that he played soccer.. and was a goalie!! and didn't start playing basketball until pretty late.. like 17 or something like that i believe.. so crazy.. it was amazing to watch him play.
The jazz used to view their 3 centers as 18 fouls they could use on Akeem. It was before hack a shack was a thing. And that was with someone who shot like 78% from the line.
Tim Duncan was probably the second best big man I've ever seen night in and night out live ! I remember when he was a rookie up to retirement. Chamberlain had some crazy moves like the Dreamback in the day! He's worth a watch
Hakeem was the best defender of all time period. He was a superstar on both ends of the court. Easily top 5 all time.
You must be around 70 years old to make that proclamation.
I'm sure you watched nate the Great, Wilt and russell.
Hakeem is the all time blocks leader. Was in top 10 in steals every year. Let alone how dominant he was on the offensive end of the court! Hands down best center ever! 🤘🏾💪🏾❤️
Olajuwon was one of the most dominant bigs on BOTH ends of the floor. I would take Olajuwon over any big. That little shake was his move that why its called THE DREAM SHAKE. Olajuwon is my favorite big of all time.
I have him at third, after Wilt and Russell. Not gonna lie though, I'd have loved to see blocks and steals on those guys to be more comfortable about the ranking.
@@c99kfm disrespectful. How u got bill but not the greatest center of all time, Lee Alcindor. Y’all gone stop disregarding that man.
@@TheIcemanthomas He's my fourth, but definitely behind the top three in my book. He's definitely one of the greatest centers ever, but he his rings all came when he had the support of all-time great point guards, Oscar and Magic.
Prime-Kareem scores more than prime-Hakeem, but they're just about equal in blocks and rebounds. Prime-Hakeem takes the lead through his defensive presence and steals, in my book, though I'd understand swapping their order.
Wilt and Bill are gods of ages past. If you don't believe they're 1 and 2, you need to look further into the heights their rivalry spurred them to. A post-prime, post-knee-surgery Wilt blocked consecutive skyhooks while ignoring Kareems defence. And Bill won more rings than he has fingers for against prime Wilt.
By the way, it's a bit disrespectful not to call Kareem by his chosen name.
@@TheIcemanthomas call him Kareem. this is like calling Muhammad Ali, Cassius Clay (in a way)
He’s my favorite player
It was fun watching you see Olajuwon for the first time. He was a very unique talent.
Olajowon over Mutombo.. easily.. mutombo couldnt hold Olajuwon's jock.. Mutumbo was just defensive. Hakeem was the whole package
Hakeem "the dream" Olajuwon.. the dream shake is a play off his nickname and him shaking back in forth then going ro his fadeaway jumper
Yeah man it’s insulting to Olajuwon for somebody to even ask the question. The only centers to compare with him are Kareem, Wilt, Russell, and Shaq. Anybody else is just foolish.
Yea not even in the same sentence together. And all time block leader that will stand for a long time
EASILY OLAJUWON!
Shaq to all offense
The fact that Hakeem was picked over Jordan and no one criticized Houston is noteworthy. I think it is also amazing that a center was also one of the leaders in steals. For a man his size, that's amazing.
That 84 draft was the best.
Hakeem is my #1 center of all time he was 6’10, and didn’t start playing basketball til he was in high school. He’s from Nigeria and he grew up playing soccer. He was a Goalie. No big man had his foot work, he was a mid 75-80% cree throw shorter, he could score from anywhere on the floor and he had handles like not other bug men ever. He was the most skilled big man of all time.
He’s 1 of the only players to win a title with no other superstar with there 1st title. Robert shorty was a rookie from Alabama. At the time nobody knew who Kenny Smith was .
The only other big man that was close to him as versatility and could do everything was Tim Duncan. Lebrun/Kobe/Shaq and other NBA greats have reached out to Hakeem in the off-season to try and learn his footwork and post moves
MJ put Hakeem on his starting 5 so yeah, he was pretty awesome
- MJ also wanted Kwame Brown. lol. MJ is the GOAT but he's bbq chicken as an owner.
@@jlui21yeah but he knows who hee wants to play with the best center of all time
Prime Olajuwon (basically all the years prior to 1996) is the most complete package of skills and shot blocking/rebounding we have ever seen.
Hands down
My favorite stat is he was the first player to ever finish a season top 10 in rebounds and steals.. And he did it 10 seasons in a row.. And nobody has done it since..
@@jacobjones5269 whoah thats gnarly
Not so fast my friend. Too many people forget about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
@@beaujac311 Kareem was not better than Hakeem at anything. Not one single thing. You're obviously young and never watch both of them play live.
When it comes to game, not talking about legacy but just game, Olajuwon is the best center in NBA history. He doesn't get that recognition but he should. There's no center that was as skilled and dominant on BOTH ends of the court than Olajuwon.
The 2 years that he won a championship is still the best I've ever seen a player play. Bird, Magic, Jordan, Kobe, LeBron, etc. none of them were as great as Olajuwon was on both ends of the court during those 2 seasons.
If Sampson stayed healthy we would be debating if Jordan or James were 2nd best
MJ, Durant, Reggie, Shaq, Horry all put Hakeem in their starting 5... So that is a testament to how good Hakeem really was !!
That would be a devastating starting 5 in itself Jordan, Miller, KD, Horry, Shaq
Hakeem dominates Mutombo in every single measurable defensive stat.
Hakeem basically learned to play basketball in College, he played soccer his entire life and is the reason people believe he had elite footwork.
Fun fact about Akeem/Hakeem was he was originally set to go to school up north but changed his mind after visiting the school during the winter. Instead he chose to go to Houston because he preferred the hot weather.
HAKEEM IS THE ALLTIME LEADER IN BLOCK SHOT!
Just asking the question Olajuwon or Mutumbo says you need to watch more videos on Olajuwon. I for one not going to take ANY big over Dream. He should be on EVERYONES top 10 players alltime list if you ask me. The 1st non-american to win MVP and DPoY and never even touched a basketball until he was 15. Only player ever to retire being in the top 10 in Blocks, scoring, rebounds, and steals. Only player ever to win MVP, DPoY, and Finlas MVP in same season. Only player ever to have 200 blocks and 200 steals in same season. Only 12 players have ever got 200 blocks and 100 steals in a season and he did it 11 times. 1 of only 4 players to ever record a quadruple double and he actually did it twice but NBA took an assist away. He's also the closest player ever to get a QUINTUPLE DOUBLE. That's how great of an all-around player he was. He could do it all. There will NEVER be another Olajuwon. Hope you continue on your Olajuwon journey man......
Right as I was watching I exclaimed out loud "Mutumbo was great great great ... but no one in their right mind is taking him over Hakeem Olajuwon."
You sound like me. I could go on and on and on about how amazing Hakeem and his story was.
All while the video was playing the first 2 minutes he was cooking Mutombo. LOL
Bro. Look at Olajuwon DEF stat numbers. He is number one in block shots of all time. That won't be replaced in a long time. Mutombo doesn't even come close. He is number 2 in blocks. Olajuwon is the only center that is top 10 in steals. Plus Mutombo had NO offensive game. Please research before putting up a video. It will only take you 5 minutes.
He's not top ten, but he's on the cusp. And you're right that he is world's greater than Mutombo. And you're also right that he was probably a once in a generation if not once in a lifetime player. A true all-time great.
"He can shoot?" 😁There's nothing Hakeem couldn't do. Maybe besides bring the ball up court Olajuwon did it all. I love this! Seeing someone knowledgeable about basketball really getting thier 1st experience of a legend like Olajuwon! This is great!
Olajuwon is the greatest basketball player of all time. The game footage, stats, and level of competition is all available now, there's no denying it anymore
agree 100%...changed the game at the 5 and look at the game now...all perimeter no post game.
I agree Hakeem Olajuwon is the greatest basketball player of all time! Forbes magazine actually has more info to back it up and that’s only statistically
Absofuckinlutely
My dude Olajuwon recorded at least 100 steals and at least 200 blocks every season for his first 12 seasons! The only player in history to record 200 blocks and 200 steals in the same season and the only center in the top 51 or so in the top 10 in steals(#9 all time)
Hakeem is the man, he can defends just about anyone, and there is no one can really defend him.
There will never be another dream he will always be my favorite nba player
Mine too!!
Olajuwon didn't have the number of MVPS and championships like Jordan, Russell, Kareem, Magic, or Bird, but you could make a strong argument that Olajuwon was the most-talented/skilled player of all-time. Few guys ever worked as hard as he did on both ends of the court. He was a tenacious hustling defensive monster with the finest footwork on offense of any big ever. I remember during about '88 to '91, guys like Jordan, Barkley, Drexler and Ewing were putting up tremendous individual stats, but Olajuwon's were otherwordly; he led the league in both blocked shots and rebounds during the '89 and '90 seasons. He continued to be on a tear in '91 until a Bill Cartwright elbow to the eye put him out for awhile (had to have surgery and came back wearing goggles for a period). While Olajuwon was out, the NBA was already trying to build up young David Robinson as the best center in the league. But, we all know who was the best center of the 90s.
I remember that moment in time vividly and I said the same thing back then.
Most blocks ever ! Only player to get over 200 blocks and 200 steals in a season . 😤
Part 2 is needed
Olajuwan was great defensively bro. You gotta study him more. Hakeem was one of the most underrated players in history and I'm sure his peers will tell you the same thing. When Jordan left the league this is the man who couldn't be stopped.
The NBA's all time leader in blocks.
Olajuwon owned Jordan!!
@@shawnmcx482 #9 all time in steals too
I only disagree in that the sonics wupt houston every damn year. They were the biggest reason houston did not get farther in the playoffs more often. Damn sonics lol
@@ironangel667 not in 93' or 97' tho!
Dream is the NBA ALL TIME Shot Blocker leader. Way more than Mutumbo. He got it done on both ends. Dream dominated all the Centers in his era even Shaq.
1. Olajuwon, 3,830 All time leader for NBA Blocks 2. Mutombo, 3,289. Also top 10 all time in steals.
This guy might be the greatest defender to ever play the game..
Wilt
@@lukekiefer5964
In the argument, no doubt, but tough to know because hardly any defensive stats were kept.. Definitely a better run protector, and he won with size, one on one, defensively, but both Russell and Hakeem were better one on one.., and both were certainly better help defenders..
It’s close between those 3..
IMO, best big man ever in the game. No center had his footwork and not only that, he was quick as a cat. As far as I'm concerned, he had no weakness.
He definitely had weakness but they were few and far between. He wasn’t the best when it came to his shot selection for a while and had that same stigma of never passing early in his career. But like mj and kobe, he was such a great shot maker that it really didn’t hurt him at all. And once he started a trusting his teammates more, he got even more dominant. He’s probably the best difficult shot making bigman ever.
Olajuwon was everything Mutumbo was defensively and more. Hakeem is the all-time shot block leader in league history and top ten all time in steals as a center.
He was a 7 ft. tall soccer goalie before he came to Houston for college ball. Living in Houston, we got a lot of back story on him and knew that he would be a monster.
@Ben
Born January 21, 1963 (age 60)
Lagos, Nigeria
Nationality Nigerian / American
Listed height 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
Listed weight 255 lb (116 kg)
Career information
High school Muslim Teachers College
(Lagos, Nigeria)
College Houston (1981-1984)
NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
Selected by the Houston Rockets
Playing career 1984-2002
Position Center
Number 34
@Ben You go girl.
There's a reason that the "dream" is part of MJ's top 5. Birds of the same feather, flock together. 🐐🐐
Hakeem is the all time shot block leader
He owned Jordan.....
Dream was a beast what center u know can move around the court like dream that houston rockets in the 90s was super tight 🚀
Man, as much of a student of the game as you are, I'm honestly shocked you didn't know about Hakeem...enjoyed it!
Easy Hakeem... I love your Mutombo love. There's a reason the NBA just named the defensive player of year award after Hakeem! The only guy outside of David Robinson (who Hakeem cooked in the playoffs) who could get you 4 blocks AND 2 steals a game from the center position. While grabbing 11-14 boards and scoring 27-28 a game.
Also I think this is the season when he won MVP, DPOY and finals MVP. Something nobody else has ever done.
There's a reason several legendary players went to him for help with their footwork
When Olajuwon retired he was also 6th ALL TIME in steals. Not Just centers. Mount whatever...are you kidding me!
Houston won back to back championships in the mid 90's.
Young man. Hakeem is the all time leader in shot blocks. He has an astounding 601 more blocks than Deke.
He was also in the top 10 in steals of all time when he retired. Offensively is not even a comparison. You may be the only person in the world that would ever say, they would take Deke over Dream. I appreciate your platform….Keep striving to be great lil homie!
HAKEEM HONED HIS GAME AT FONDE RECREATION CENTER, SHOWS WHAT KIND OF PERSON HE IS AND HOW DEDICATED TO THE GAME HE WAS.
His work ethics and conditioning was amazing.
2:22 Hakeem has the record for blocked shots...TO THIS DAY
Mutumbo over Olojuwan is insane. Olojuwan is a top 10 all time player. Better in literally every facet of the game
You saw the offense but Olajuwon is the all-time leader in blocks and top 10 in steals! (the only big in the top 60!!) Hollinger rated him 2nd best defender ever, behind Bill Russell (who avg'd 15 pts/Mutombo's best year was 16 as a rookie, btw). Hakeem just gets underrated on defense b/c the offense is AMAZING!
Hakeem never fails to lead his team to playoffs once no matter how bad his team was except the year he was injured. Olajuwon was an all star already in his rookie year. Arguable top 10 player of all time.With regards to him and Mutombo, Olajuwon is the all time leader in blocks and top 10 all time in steals. No center ever makes it to the top 10 all time in steals except for him. Its very clear that Olajuwon is better than Mutombo defensively.Olajuwon is the main offense and defense of the Rockets and the only player to win MVP,Finals MVP and Defensive player of the Year in one season.Truly underrated as an all time greats.
I couldn't have said it better...I probably would have cursed to
Hakeem is so good, I put him in my all time 5 at the 4, even though he was a center. Duncan is a beast too.
Dream would eat Duncan alive look what he did to Kareem Ewing Robinson Rodman and Shaq Duncan don't have a chance
ONLY PLAYER IN TOP 10 OF EVERY STAT!
Wrong. Hakeem is the only player in the top 8 in block’s and steal’s. Number 1 in block’s, and 8 steal’s as a center. There is a video of him blocking Jordan’s shot for 6 minutes.
Hakeem in my top 10 all time.
Oh! ...and Kareem had great footwork as well!
He actually 6'10"
He played big and had long arms.
Another center with great foot work at that time. Kevin McHale of Boston Celtics. With Bird And Parish.
Hakeem had all footmovent.
McHale was more wiggel
Mchale was a pf not center and he was 611
Both Olajuwan (3.09 blocks per game) and Mutumbo ( 2.75 blocks per game) give you some great defense 👍.
No one from that Era would EVER pick mutumbo over the dream.
The Houston Cougars (Olajuwon, Drexler, etc) were averaging around 100 pts. per game in 1983. In the NCAA Finals, N.C. State held them to 52 points (no shot clock) and won in the final second on a play I still can see vividly right now. No shit. Still bummed. lol. Wiki that!
Yes the term "dream shake" came about because of hakeem, and hakeems' nickname was "the dream".
Yeah my mind was blown
I got Hakeem in my all time starting 5 with Larry and MJ as the must-have core three players. You could put Hakeem at the 5 or at the 4 as well.
Based on their playstyles and having no real weaknesses in the squad:
(C) Duncan
(PF) Hakeem
(SF) Larry
(SG) MJ
(PG) Magic
*or* as a smaller, quicker team with constant full court pressure, possibly more scoring, and some of the defensive load taken off Jordan by putting the 3 on the other teams best player:
(C) Hakeem
(PF) Larry (stretch 4)
(SF) Kawhi or Scotty
(SG) MJ
(PG) Stockton
I’d have
1. Shaq C
2. Hakeem PF
3. Bird SF
4. Jordan 2 guard
5. Magic PG
@@thefalco1981 Shaq is a top choice as well as Wilt at the 5, a power player that could bully the other team into submission, and in Wilt's case, also a lot of finesse when needed, and insane athletic ability.
Bros, 5. Russel 4. Hakeem 3. Larry 2. Jordan 1. Magic
Real quick, just imagine trying to get through that frontcourt. Forget about it.
Extremely defense 5
5. Russel
4. Hakeem
3. Scotty
2. Jordan
1. Payton
Top five MJ Bird Dream Magic Duncan nobody's gonna beat this lineup period
Hakeem was the best center in the league for about 10 years. In his prime, he was better than Shaq, David Robinson, Ewing, Mourning, and WAY better than Mutombo. Dikembe isn't even in the same conversation of greatness with Hakeem. Olajuwon was quick like a guard, and had the best footwork of any NBA center ever. It's not even close. Olajuwon was a better defender than Mutombo too.
Awesome seeing people react to Hakeem for the first time. I watched him all the time growing up in Houston in the 80s and 90s, but I was a kid, so I couldn't appreciate just WHY he was so good. I saw the stats, I saw him score, and I saw his defense. But I didn't see the little things. The footwork, the little micro-moves with his shoulders, hands, and head that he obviously spent years cultivating. I also wondered why people didn't "just guard him on the fadeaway" before realizing that if they leaned too hard into the fadeaway, he could easily spin around and do a jump hook..or work his way under the basket for a reverse layup... or simply fade in the opposite direction. And those 1993-95 Rockets were so good in part because his surrounding cast was so good, so if you double-teamed Hakeem, you ran the risk of leaving Kenny Smith, Robert Horry, Sam Cassell, Mario Elie, Clyde Drexler, Otis Thorpe, etc. open for an easy look at a three or an easy basket underneath.
2 of my favorite basketball players from the 80s/90s was hakeem Olajuwan and Dominique Wilkins. Both incredibly underrated and never had another star or helper on their team to help them get more championships. I always wished they would end up on the same team. If they had they'd been very hard to stop.
You forgot the block on Michael Jordan for the win.
Also check his record vs Jordan’s bulls. Like 11-1.
Hakeem is the greatest center of all time. You need to check videos with his stats and accolades.
my favorite Center in the modern era
Joel has great footwork. He modeled his game after Hakeem. And shaq did have solid footwork. It wasn’t as flashy as Hakeem’s. It was more subtle and hidden behind his power game. But it was there. Tim Duncan had phenomenal footwork. Al Jefferson’s post work was good. Zach Randolph is another. Kevin Mchale is close
You can combine all their footwork and still not match Olajuwon's. You gotta start comparing his footwork with Kobe and Jordan's
That’s not true. Mchales footwork absolutely on Hakeem’s level.
Not even close. Not down talking joel but he aint got it.
@@armandodelossantos736his game also just because he didnt do 40 plus anight he couldve but only when needed and won 2 rings without another allstar on the roster.
@@TheIcemanthomasmike wasnt almost 7ft tall either
12:03 "I'm looking at his footwork:. - Yeah - probably, at the very least arguably (but more like probably)😀 the best in the history of the game.
Hakeem is the only player in NBA history to win a championship with 0 all stars on his team, and that was the team you were watching. So when you say they look like a dominant “team”, I wouldnt say so. They just had Hakeem and no one else did. Also, when you said you’d take Mutumbo over Hakeem bc defense wins championships, Hakeem dragged his team to 2 finals wins. Mutombo never did. I’d say Hakeem was just as good defensively as Mutombo, but Hakeem also scored 35 ppg in the playoffs and around 25 in the reg season. Mutombo not doin that
You take his left side, you get the fade away from the baseline, you take his right side it's an easy jump hook. You double/triple team him, the Rockets surrounded him with excellent 3-pt shooters (Maxwell, Kenny Smith, Horry, Mario Elie). Also, he was a much better defender than Mutombo. More blocks and he had the most steals as a big man. Along with the quick feet he had really quick hands.
Olajuwon and McHale are the best post players in their era
From what I've seen from both, I'd say that Olajuwon provides enough defense to justify taking him over Mutombo, especially because he'd do so much on the offensive end :)
Olajuwon is #9 all time in steals nobody comes close to him defensively
Hakeem is #1 to this day alltime blocks leader. Also, retired 7th alltime in steals. First overall for steals among centers. He was such an amazing rebounder he regularly was in the top 10 in rebounds despite constantly being out of position from blocking shots. Comparing Hakeem to Motumbo is frankly insulting. Hakeem was a far superior player. Only player to reach 200 blocks and 200 steals in a season and he did it like 4 or 5 times. Seriously, comparing a 2 way player to a one way player is not fare in the first place.
@@ironangel667 💯
@@ironangel667 Olajuwon retired #7 all time in steals and just recently got pushed to #9
Hakeem is the all time leader in shot blocks. Dikembe is second and was a great defender. but Olajuwon was a guy you could build an entire franchise around. so awesome to see you getting to watch him play for the first time!! always a good Idea to go back and watch the previous generations play.. :)
I have Kareem as the #1 Center of all time but Hakeem at #2, he's the all time blocks leader, ahead of Mutombo, and he has the best footwork and smoothest shot of any center in history. When MJ retired in the mid 90's, Hakeem automatically became the best player in the league and started winning chips.
Do manu ginobli please
He was the number 1 pick in the same draft as Michael Jordan. He was a dominant big man, and he led his Rockets teams to the playoffs for like 10+ seasons in row. He sent Shaquille and penny home without a ring. Truly one of the best to ever play and put up a quadruple double
Great reaction man,watching from the Phillipines
Bro. He leads the league in all time blocks ever. No one will pass his record. EVER
Olajuwon was a soccer player in his youth before he got into basketball and he translated his soccer juke into basketball to create the Dream Shake. That's part of why his footwork was so godlike. Looking at the shake it doesn't look like much but if you break it down it's a perfect 50/50 mixup.
Not even close Hakeem the dream 100%.... This guy is the best center ever... only once for a year played with another super star (Sampson) went to the final. Ralph Sampson injured never again had a chance until 93. It was him alone against the world.
Olajuan block record will never be broken oh and by the way he is top 10 all time in steals. Greatest defender ever.
there were many stars that were to win the championship when jordan went to play baseball but olajuvon won them twice and that tells everything about him
Jordan was not playing baseball when Hakeem won his 2nd title. But thanks anyways
Hakeem was like a 7ft guard with his footwork. He’s all time shot block leader and top 10 all time in points, rebounds, steals, and assists. Imagine if Shaq and Olajuwon on the same team putting Olajuwon at PF.
The rockets moved 7'4 Ralph Sampson to PF when they drafted Olajuwon so he could play center lol
They did because Sampson was a skilled ball handler and shooter from the outside. Surprisingly at Sampson’s height he wasn’t as good as Olajuwon was at paroling the middle. Sampson would’ve been great if it wasn’t for his injuries. He had a soft touch.
@@thefalco1981 Sampson was a liability even at his best
@@armandodelossantos736 how so?
First watch! I gree up watching the dream! He played the center position in the NBA in the mid 80's through the 90's like big men okay in the modern era! It's what makes Bird so iconic as well! Guys that played in the what i call "BIG EAST" era through the physicalness of the game at that time with the finess that translates into todays game! Hakeem would be a top end 4 or 5 in today's game if he entered the league, no doubt! Probably the best in the league!
There is a reason elite guards like Kobe and Lebron went to Hakeem to tune their footwork. Skills gained due to him playing soccer as a kid instead of bball. Moses Malone was also instrumental in hardening him for the NBA.
I'm from Indianapolis and I'm a pacers fan but Olajuwon was always my favorite although Jordan is the goat, Olajuwon is my favorite. no matter what player or what era he would smoke everyone. Best all around player in NBA history.
hakkem footwork pure art!!!
There are different aspects of defence bro. Mutombo was good at blocking but Hakeem blocks, steals and rebounds better.
Hakeem is also good offensively. Hakeem is complete
THE DREAM!! He is a legend+champ
11:32 blocked Shaq
11:54 broke Shaq's ankles
But to be fair, these are just highlights in one season, but Hakeem is top shot blocker of all time. At the time this comment is written, he's top 10 of all time in steals. We're talking steals! No other big is even top 50. At one point he led the Rockets in 5 categories. He was the best all around player up there with Jordan.
Russell and Chamberlin said Olajuwan is the only center that cold play with them.
Duncan, Olajuwon,Nash, Bird, and Jordan. That is my 5 for my life.
Back to back champs, hell yeah they were good.
Olajuwon is more versatile than motumbo
that houston team got two rings , when mike played baseball for a year and a half. but they were a great team
He really said he’d take Mutombo over Hakeem 😂😂😂😂😂
The first couple of minutes all of Hakeem's scoring is against Mutombo. Mutombo could not stop Hakeem. Defensively, Mutombo only had blocks, Hakeem had blocks, rebounds and steals.
In all those highlights Hakeem is scoring on some of the top defenders, including Rodman (w/San Antonio), Mutombo (w/Denver), Alton Lister (w/Seattle), Buck Williams (w/Portland) and Shaq (w/Orlando).
Hakeem finished his career #1 in all-time blocks and top 10 in all-time steals. The only center in the top 20 all-time. It was not uncommon for Hakeem to pick the ball for a steal from a guard.
i'm sure someone in these comments someone says that he played soccer.. and was a goalie!! and didn't start playing basketball until pretty late.. like 17 or something like that i believe.. so crazy.. it was amazing to watch him play.
#TheDreamAllDay Hakeem was great on Both ends of the floor and he has the #GoatFootwork
Olajuwon all time block leader. And was also tops in steals also.
Hakeem could play in any era. He was a beast.
The jazz used to view their 3 centers as 18 fouls they could use on Akeem. It was before hack a shack was a thing. And that was with someone who shot like 78% from the line.
Hell yeah, that was Shaq :P The big dude said that Hakeem was the only center e was worried to face, cuz he couldn't handle that footwork :D
Tim Duncan was probably the second best big man I've ever seen night in and night out live ! I remember when he was a rookie up to retirement. Chamberlain had some crazy moves like the Dreamback in the day! He's worth a watch
Olajuwon… Periodt !!!! No comparison his era and this era…
Come on the dream did everything won 2 titles with scrubs glad u changed ur mine Jordan did not want any part of the Nigeria n bother